SWSA: 10-man Rovers fall to home team Australind in Sunday tussle

On a sunny Sunday, Manjimup Rovers men’s team played away to Australind, losing 3-1. Rovers went into the game with 10 players, so from the outset it was going to be a challenge to overcome the higher-placed team with a full team and bench. The game was an even tussle for the first 15 minutes with each team having small opportunities, until Australind was able to move forward with numbers and Shane McGirr got a clear shot from outside the box – curling the ball nicely into the top right corner. From there, Australind got their confidence up and quickly scored another two goals, thanks to the work of Kobe McGirr and Shane McGirr – both from flat cross balls from the wing that found their player at the back post for the tap in. Rovers were a bit dejected, but picked themselves up to even the contest in the last 10 minutes of the half, having some half-chances that went wide or straight to the keeper. At the break, Rovers were determined to get something out of the game, and looked to move the ball quicker to unsettle the Australind defence. Rovers were able to cut off a lot of ball in the middle and turn it into repeat attacking attempts. Rovers were eventually rewarded when a ball went over the Australind defence and Cak Rashid was able to collect and have a shot on the sharp angle. The ball skimmed off the defender straight into the path of Sam Kerry, who was able to tap it in and breathe life into the game. The Rovers were able to get more plays from the midfield going forward, but couldn’t convert the half opportunities that were presented. Towards the end, Australind were awarded a penalty but the kick was off-target - Australind still winning the game, but Rovers having a little victory in winning the second half. Next weekend both men’s and women’s teams will be at home, the men taking on Eaton Dardanup, and the women Margaret River.